Cruising Into Montevideo ( Part Five )

A half day tour in Montevideo, Uruguay gave us a chance to glimpse the country's only major metropolis. Our guide explained that most families were away for Carnival celebrations. That combined with a Sunday morning arrival meant it was a quiet look at this coastal community.

The seaside promenade was alive with joggers and small groups exercising with a view of the lapping waves.

Our tour included a stop at a local winery that imports several labels to the US followed by a steam train ride back to the town's center.

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My favorite part of the day was visiting a typical neighborhood where pastel colored houses served as backdrop for families enjoying a sleepy Sunday afternoon.

Cruise note: To counter-balance the extraordinary food on board Insignia, I needed a plan. It's a small measure, but I have yet to use the elevator to reach the ten different decks on board. Plus, I make every effort to visit the gym when I can.

It is an odd sensation to be moving on the treadmill as the sea and skyline parade horizontally before me. To avoid that queasy feeling, I have perfected the art of walking at a 10 percent incline for 50 minutes with my eyes closed. The improbable alternative is skipping dinner.